Interferon-alpha mediated upregulation of aquaporin expression

Abstract

A method for enhancing the expression of aquaporin proteins by contacting aquaporin producing cells with interferon-alpha is described. The method enables treatment of patients afflicted with disease states characterized by xerosis.

We claim:  
     
       1. A method of improving pulmonary function in a patient suffering from a pulmonary disorder characterized by mucous blocked airways, said method comprising the step of administering interferon-alpha in an amount effective to upregulate aquaporin protein expression in lung cells and enhance mucous mobilization. 
     
     
       2. The method of  claim 1  wherein the interferon is administered orally. 
     
     
       3. The method of  claim 1  wherein the interferon is administered bucally. 
     
     
       4. The method of  claim 1  wherein the interferon is administered topically to the lung cells by inhalation. 
     
     
       5. The method of  claim 1  wherein the effective amount of interferon-alpha is from about 0.1 IU/lb to about 100 IU/lb of patient body weight. 
     
     
       6. The method of  claim 4  wherein the interferon is administered using a metered dose inhaler. 
     
     
       7. The method of  claim 6  wherein a metered dose from the metered dose inhaler is from about 75 IU to about 1000 IU of interferon.